How to plan a wedding budget
Weddings have many moving parts, and it is easy to overspend in one area and run short in another. This calculator splits your total budget across the main categories using typical industry percentages, giving you a sensible starting point to adjust from. Venue and catering usually take the biggest share, close to half.
Worked example
On a 20,000 budget, roughly 9,000 goes to venue and catering, about 2,400 to photography and video, and smaller shares to attire, flowers, music, rings and the rest, with a buffer for surprises.
Make it yours
These are guidelines, not rules. If photography matters most to you, shift money toward it and trim elsewhere. Always keep a buffer of around 5%, since unexpected costs are almost guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
How should I split a wedding budget?
A common split puts about 45% on venue and catering, 12% on photography, and the rest across attire, flowers, music, rings and a buffer. Adjust to your priorities.
How big a buffer should I keep?
Around 5% of the total. Nearly every wedding runs into extra costs, and a buffer keeps them from derailing the plan.
Are these percentages fixed?
No, they are typical averages. Move money between categories to match your priorities, as long as the total stays within budget.
Should I keep a buffer?
Yes. A buffer of around 5% covers the extra costs that nearly every wedding runs into.
Does it include the honeymoon?
No, this covers the wedding itself. Budget the honeymoon separately on top.